2026 World Cup: Internal revolt rocks Uruguay squad

Just hours before a decisive showdown against Spain, the Uruguayan national team finds itself gripped by a deep internal crisis. According to Uruguayan radio Espectador Deportes, several key figures within La Celeste have openly challenged the methods of their manager, Marcelo Bielsa.

Uruguay’s senior players are demanding change. The outlet reports that Federico Valverde, Sergio Rochet, Manuel Ugarte, and Rodrigo Bentancur recently met with the Argentine coach Marcelo Bielsa to voice their concerns. The players are said to have criticized an excessive workload, blaming it for a string of injuries within the squad.

The team leaders have also reportedly called for a tactical rethink ahead of the Spain match, suggesting a more cautious and defensive approach. That proposal was turned down by Bielsa, who remains steadfast in his footballing philosophy and prefers to respond to the opponent with tactical adjustments rather than compromise his style.

A high-tension meeting

In response to the dissent, Bielsa reportedly called a full-squad meeting. According to Espectador Deportes, the coach accused certain players of trying to force him out.

Bielsa specifically referenced the omissions of Luis Suárez and Nahitan Nández from the World Cup roster, suggesting that this decision had fueled some within the camp to push for his departure.

Tensions escalated during the meeting. Several players are reported to have walked out after Bielsa claimed he had played a key role in the careers of certain internationals, including Martín Cáceres and Maxi Araújo. José María Giménez attempted to ease the situation, but his efforts proved unsuccessful.

An uncertain future

Still citing Uruguayan radio, an official from the Uruguayan Football Association—speaking anonymously—reportedly stated that Marcelo Bielsa could step down as head coach “in less than a month.”

At this stage, neither the Uruguayan Football Association nor Marcelo Bielsa has issued an official response to these reports, which come amid an especially tense atmosphere in the build-up to a critical fixture for La Celeste.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.